Spain on Show

Health

The great news is that Spanish healthcare is pretty damn fine – most ex-pats who move from the UK will tell you the access, service and treatment you get in Spain is much better than at home. If your Spanish isn’t up to much, most ex-pat communities have people who will accompany you to hospital and interpret.

If you’re simply holidaying from the UK or Ireland you can receive free medical care under a reciprocal agreement between EEC Governments. UK citizens should obtain a form E121 from the DSS prior to departure or an E111 card. NB Private hospitals will not accept this form as a means of payment.

If you’re retiring to Spain you are covered completely if you are over 65 for men, or over 60 for women. If you live here as a citizen of the EU and you are not a pensioner, self-employed or in paid employment then you are still entitled to full health care under the Spanish State Social security system.

Many medications are freely available without prescription, however it is always advisable that you consult your doctor before taking any medication.

Medications prescribed by the Spanish State Health system are free for pensioners. If you are working and paying Spanish taxes and insurance contributions, you will still pay for your prescriptions but at a reduced cost than over the counter. You should always carry a photocopy of your E111 card and your passport when visiting the doctor or the Chemist.

There are companies which provide medical insurance coverage for ex-pats. Prices vary depending upon your medical history and age. As a guideline, if you are under 60 you can expect to pay approximately €75 per month as an individual. Family cover, including dental care, can be obtained for approximately €190 per month for a family of five.

If you use the Spanish National Health Service, you can still carry a comprehensive medical emergencies policy from one of the private emergency medical companies who will respond to call-out 24 hrs a day and 365 days a year. The cost is around €95 per person or €210 for a family of five.